Abstract

A ThI-ThBr compound known as KRS-5 is presently being investigated as a forgeable IR optical material. The KRS-5 requires shaping before and after the forging which could present operator exposure to the salt. The toxicity of KRS-5 is within an order of magnitude to that of HCN and therefore demands respect. A novel technique for machining the KRS-5 is presented where all the turnings are removed from the lathe without obscuring the operators line of sight. This "secure" fixture allowed normal machining flexibility so various tooling could be tried. The results are shown to be not only a safe lab but also a fine machining job.

© 1980 Optical Society of America